triboelectric effect

Our own body movements could someday power our devices

By Faye Oney / February 13, 2018

Researchers have developed a triboelectric nanogenerator that uses body movements to generate electricity. Their device could someday generate enough power to operate our mobile devices and wearable electronics.

Read More

Our own clothes may someday power our devices

By Faye Oney / June 6, 2017

A team of materials scientists at the University of Massachusetts Amherst has developed a way to turn fabric into a conductor of electricity that is capable of powering small electronics. A vapor deposition method turns woven fabrics into electrical conductors without changing properties of the fabrics.

Read More

MCARE 2016 wrap-up: Sustainable, safe, efficient energy harvesting and storage solutions a top materials challenge

By Stephanie Liverani / April 22, 2016

Materials Challenges in Alternative and Renewable Energy (MCARE) was held April 18–21 in Clearwater, Fla., and drew nearly 200 materials scientists, researchers, and engineers from 30 countries. And everyone seems to agree that sustainable solutions for efficient energy harvesting and storage across all industries is the ultimate goal.

Read More

‘Power suit’: Clothes that charge electronics could revolutionize consumer tech

By Stephanie Liverani / March 29, 2016

While gadgets that boost smartphone battery life help widen the gap between power cord wall sits, it’s not a solution to total wireless recharging on the go. But thanks to materials science, our power chargers for smartphones and other wearable tech might be sewn right into our pants someday.

Read More